Scans would curb crippling cost

By FRANCESCA MOLD

Bone scans should be provided free to people at high risk of developing osteoporosis, says an advocacy group for sufferers.

More than half of New Zealand women and a third of men over the age of 60 are likely to break a bone because of the crippling disease, which progressively weakens the skeleton.

Osteoporosis, which is estimated to cost $200 million a year in healthcare, can be detected using density scans that use a low-level x-ray and computer to determine how much bone mineral is present.

Osteoporosis New Zealand chairwoman Margaret Austin wants free bone density scans to be made available to people at risk, as a means of reducing the high rates of the disease.

"Given our ageing population, correct diagnosis and treatment is absolutely essential for our national health and well-being," she said.

At the moment, the cost of bone density scans varies depending on where people live.

Margaret Austin said those living in Tauranga or Christchurch had better access to scans than people in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin and Hawkes Bay. The cost ranges between $70 and $100.

Most New Zealanders pay for their own scans, although some are carried out by bone clinics or hospitals.

Margaret Austin said a new survey showed public funding of scans in different parts of the country ranged from $150,000 a year to zero.

"Some health providers are funding 75 per cent of the cost of a scan and others are not subsidising at all."

She said the glaring gap between regions was unfair and led to unnecessary pain and suffering for many people.

KEYPOINTS

To reduce the risk of osteoporosis:

* Eat a balanced diet high in calcium.

* Spend 30 minutes outdoors in sunlight each day to ensure an adequate supply of vitamin D.

* Take 30 minutes of exercise, such as walking, each day.

* Limit your alcohol intake to about two drinks a day.

* Don't smoke.